Elaine Tweedus ’66: A New Meaning for the Term, “Angel Investor”

In this season of giving, it is a blessing to celebrate a remarkable gift Caldwell is receiving, thanks to the phenomenal generosity of Elaine Tweedus ’66.

As many alumni are aware, in 2015, Elaine pledged a transformational gift of $500,000 to help create a permanent place of worship on campus, named for her beloved “Aunt Mary,” who had been a Dominican Sister at Caldwell. The Sister Mary Dominic Tweedus Chapel, dedicated in September of 2019, proclaims Caldwell’s Dominican Catholic identity and serves as its spiritual center. As the Chapel’s lead benefactor, Elaine inspired many alumni to step forward and lend their support to the project.

With her pledge to the Chapel fulfilled, Elaine has decided to do even more, by becoming a “guardian angel” for Caldwell’s students during this challenging time. By agreeing to renew her commitment, Elaine will provide an additional $500,000 over five years to fund scholarships, beginning in 2021, with a pledge payment of $100,000.

Elaine’s sustained investment in Caldwell speaks to values that have been with her throughout her life. “I deeply believe that the greatest gift a person can give is the gift of an education,” she says, affirming her heartfelt belief that both current and future students should have access to the same kind of education she received at Caldwell.

“The theme of our fundraising effort this year is “A Call to Action: Imagine Your Impact,” says Kevin Boyle, Vice President of Development and Alumni Affairs, “and the entire Caldwell community is grateful beyond measure to Elaine, for the Chapel, and her renewed commitment. Her philanthropy, which will continue to improve the lives of generations of students, is an incredible legacy.”